El Día de los Muertos at Cheekwood
Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Mexico and Latin America at Cheekwood's 26th annual El Día de los Muertos festival. This expansive two-day celebration features stunning murals, beautiful memorial altars (ofrendas), captivating dance and musical performances, and a bustling marketplace with authentic cuisine and handmade crafts. Engage in hands-on activities for all ages and learn about the rich culture of Latin American neighbors.
What to Expect
Largest Day of the Dead festival in the region
Event Details
Duration
2 days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Bellevue
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Danza Azteca Guadalupana
- Grupo Folklorico Raices de mi Tierra
- Mi Cielito Lindo
- Sofia Rhiannon and Gabriella Flores
- Rachel Rodriguez and the Gringo Stars
- Duo Sudeste
- DJ Cesar
- Lirios Folkloricos
- Folklore Iyali
- Cane Ridge HS Dance Group
- Rosa Rodriguez
- San Rafael Band
Organizer
Cheekwood
Food & Drink
Authentic cuisine and handmade goods available from various food vendors.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, cultural enthusiasts, art lovers
Vibe
Celebratory, cultural, artistic, family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Cheekwood has parking onsite, but during busy days and events, parking may be limited. Rideshare and biking are encouraged. Guests using rideshare or biking will receive a ticket discount and waived parking fee. A new parking pavilion is under construction and expected in 2027.
- Pets: No pets allowed (except for service animals)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early or consider rideshare/biking to ensure parking, as capacity is often reached during this popular event.
- Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance online to guarantee admission and avoid potential sell-outs.
- Check the schedule for specific performance times to catch your favorite dance troupes and musical acts.
- Explore the marketplace for unique handmade crafts and authentic Latin American cuisine from a variety of vendors.
- Engage with the hands-on art activities designed for children, such as creating marigold crowns and monarch butterflies.
Special Events & Promotions
- Discount for rideshare and biking guests.
- Discount for active duty military, veterans, and first responders.
- Museums for All program offers reduced admission for SNAP/WIC/TANF participants.
- Blue Star Museums program offers free admission for active military and families during summer.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for El Día de los Muertos?
The event takes place on October 31 and November 1, 2026, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Is parking available at Cheekwood?
Cheekwood has on-site parking, but it can be limited during busy events. Rideshare and biking are encouraged, and guests using these options receive discounts. A new parking pavilion is under construction.
Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, all guests, including members, are required to reserve a timed-entry ticket online in advance.
What kind of food and vendors will be present?
The festival features a marketplace with authentic cuisine from various food vendors and handmade goods from local artists.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there are hands-on activities for kids of all ages, including marigold flower crown making, monarch butterfly crafts, and Papel Picado coloring sheets.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.